How is an existing domain connected to a Vercel deployment?

How is an existing domain connected to a Vercel deployment?

Connecting an existing domain means associating its hostname with a Vercel project and configuring DNS to reach the platform. Start with a working deployment so that domain troubleshooting does not become mixed with unresolved build or application errors.

Select the intended project and hostname

Confirm the project and production environment that should receive visitors. Decide whether the preferred address uses the apex domain or a subdomain such as www. Plan how any alternate hostname should redirect.

Add the hostname in the project's domain settings. Use the DNS instructions shown for that project, including any ownership verification requested. Avoid copying an IP address or CNAME value from an old tutorial. Vercel's setup guide documents these steps.

Change the relevant DNS records

At the authoritative DNS provider, apply the required record names and values. Review existing records first and resolve only the conflicts affecting the hostname being connected.

Preserve records used by other services. For example, a wedding app might already send invitations through a separate email provider. Its mail and verification records should continue to exist. If changing nameservers, migrate the complete required DNS configuration before relying on the new provider.

Validate the connected application

Wait for the relevant DNS caches to refresh and check the project's domain and certificate status. Test the preferred hostname and any redirects from alternate addresses.

Then sign in, open a dashboard, follow an invitation link, and test a controlled email journey. Update application URLs or provider allowlists where the hostname affects them. Record the final configuration and any follow-up work. The connection is complete when the domain serves the intended release and the important user journeys function through the address users will receive.